Drawing & CAD Design Checker — GD&T Specialist

About AST SpaceMobile

AST SpaceMobile is developing the world's first and sole global cellular broadband network from space, designed to communicate directly with standard mobile devices without modification. Utilizing a broad IP and patent portfolio, the network caters to commercial and governmental needs. Their mission centers on bridging connectivity gaps for five billion mobile users and providing broadband access to billions unserved today.

Role Overview

We seek an experienced CAD Design Checker with deep expertise in Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) to join our Spacecraft Engineering team. This role acts as the chief technical reviewer, ensuring engineering drawings and 3D model-based designs, spanning satellite programs from conception through integration, meet stringent aerospace standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform detailed reviews of engineering drawings and 3D CAD models for satellite components such as structures, mechanisms, propulsion, and avionics, ensuring full adherence to ASME Y14.5 GD&T standards.
• Confirm GD&T annotations are applied correctly, clearly defined, and feasible within manufacturing and assembly capabilities specific to satellites.
• Contribute to and verify 1D and 2D tolerance stack-up analyses on critical flight interfaces.
• Assess drawings for compatibility with aerospace-grade fabrication processes, including CNC machining, composites, chemical etching, and surface treatments like anodizing and electroless nickel plating.
• Generate formal redline corrections and non-conformance reports, providing clear guidance to designers and tracking resolutions through to final drawing approval.
• Support various design reviews by auditing documentation for comprehensiveness, consistency with interface control documents, and conformity to established drawing standards.
• Update and enhance internal drawing standards, templates, and GD&T educational resources to align with ongoing program and industry demands.
• Provide expert guidance on GD&T interpretation, mentor junior designers, and deliver formal training on aerospace drafting practices.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Must be a U.S. citizen.
• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Engineering Technology, or a closely related discipline; comparable experience may be considered.
• At least 8 years of progressive experience in mechanical design checking or senior drafting roles, with a minimum of 4 years in aerospace or space system environments.
• Advanced knowledge of GD&T under ASME Y14.5; professional certification (Senior or Technologist level GDTP) preferred.
• Competency with major aerospace CAD tools such as CATIA V5/V6, Creo/PTC, or NX/Siemens; experience with model-based definitions and annotated 3D datasets is advantageous.
• Ability to perform and validate tolerance stack-up analyses for precision components.
• Familiarity with satellite manufacturing constraints, including clean-room protocols, flight hardware handling, and relevant surface finish and contamination standards (e.g., ASTM, NASA-HDBK-6012).
• Experience managing flight hardware drawing releases and configuration management within PDM/PLM platforms like Windchill or Teamcenter.
• Strong communication skills for precise documentation and technical discussion.
• Proven collaboration skills in multidisciplinary team settings and adaptability to dynamic environments.

Additional Information

The outlined responsibilities and qualifications may evolve to meet business needs. AST SpaceMobile is an equal opportunity employer committed to merit-based employment irrespective of any protected status.